The simple recipe is said to boast many health benefits (Image: Getty Images/Blend Images)

Dr Amir Khan's simple drink recipe to boost immune system you can make for cheap

by · Daily Record

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In the quest to bolster your immune system, especially during a season rife with illness, Dr Amir Khan has a suggestion that might just do the trick.

It's a shot, but not the kind you'd have on a night out with mates. Instead, this one is brimming with "antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties" and may even boast "antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, too," according to Dr Amir.

So what's this magic elixir? It's a ginger shot, currently trending because many believe in its immunity-boosting powers. The downside?

Store-bought versions can be pricey. To save some quid and know exactly what's in your health boost, Dr Amir offers a homemade recipe.

He advises: "Ginger shots can cost a fortune when you buy them, but you can make them at home for half the price and freeze them in ice cube trays and defrost them when needed."

The doctor claims "ginger is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties", which are "supportive of good immune health". While he acknowledges most studies haven't focused on ginger shots specifically, they're expected to offer similar benefits.

"Lemon juice, of course, has Vitamin C, and honey feels warm and soothing on sore throats", he adds, noting he keeps "the skin on the ginger for added fibre" and sometimes includes "add a sprinkling of pepper or turmeric powder too".

Healthline reports ginger shots, made with ingredients such as ginger, honey, lemon, pepper, and apple, have become a trendy pick-me-up in the wellness sector. They're claimed to stave off sickness and strengthen your immune system.

Although they've only soared in popularity recently, these potent potions have been used for years. However, due to their strong flavour, ginger shots can be rather intense. It adds: "Due to their high concentration of this powerful root, ginger shots can be spicy and unpleasant to drink. Thus, they're made in small quantities and typically consumed in one or two swigs."

Experts underline that ginger is brimming with compounds like gingerols, paradols, sesquiterpenes, shogaols, and zingerone, noted for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Despite the lack of studies specifically on ginger shots, "Numerous test-tube and animal studies show that ginger extract reduces inflammation in those with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory gut disease, asthma, and certain cancers," Healthline surmises.

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